Tonga: Authorities extend lockdown in Tongatapu and the Vava'u islands through at least 05:00 April 9 /update 11

Event

Officials in Tonga will extend an ongoing lockdown on Tongatapu and the Vava'u Islands through at least 05:00 April 9. A 20:00-08:00 curfew will continue April 2-3, 5, and 7-8. However, authorities will ease the curfew to 20:00-05:00 April 4 and 6. The government will also permit essential businesses and services to operate April 2, 5, and 7.

Domestic Measures
A red alert level, the highest, remains in effect. Most residents in Tongatapu and the Vava'u Islands must stay at home unless for traveling for emergencies or medical care, work in essential sectors, visiting farms, or fishing for urgent supplies to travel outside of curfew hours. Public transport remains suspended in both locations.

The government is maintaining a nightly 20:00-05:00 curfew in all other areas of the country. Most gatherings are banned. However, funerals and weddings can occur with 10 people indoors or 20 people outdoors with an authorized officer present, including in areas under lockdown orders. Facemasks and social distancing remain required in public.

Businesses can operate Monday-Saturday. Large retail companies must obtain prior approval for reopening plans, and workplaces can only gradually increase on-site staff. Eateries can offer takeaway services. Most entertainment and nightlife businesses remain closed.

It is unclear if authorities have suspended travel to outlying islands, but interisland transport disruptions are likely. Previously, the government resumed transport between Tongatapu and Ha'apai, 'Eua, and the Niuas islands. Travelers must self-quarantine for five days and undergo testing before departure and self-quarantine for five days upon arrival. International and domestic cargo shipments are ongoing.

International Travel Restrictions
An entry ban for most foreign nationals remains in place. Tongan citizens, permanent residents, and pre-approved international travelers can travel to the country. International commercial flights, cruise ships, and yachts remain banned; however, some repatriation flights are operating. Inbound travelers must quarantine for 15 days. Arrivals must submit health declaration forms upon entry.

Advice

Follow all official orders. Obtain permission before traveling if operating in areas under lockdown. Remain nonconfrontational if stopped by police. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays.